According to adolescent therapist John Mopper, "Studies have shown how notifications on our phones can send a hit of dopamine. After a while, our brain associates that with pleasure. And for some kids and adults alike, seeking out that hit of dopamine can become compulsive.” | Image courtesy: (healthline)

Altered Childhoods: According to a study published last year in the journal of Child Development, teens today are experiencing a slower path to embracing adult responsibilities than ever before.

And the researchers concluded that cell phone and tablet engagement was at least partially to blame. Because with social connection always just a few clicks away, teens today are less likely to leave their homes and seek that connection in the “real” world.